A Sussex children’s charity is starting the new year with a boost thanks to the 10,000 people who visited their Christmas grottos.

The Budding Foundation, based in Lancing, helps young people across the county, especially those in-need or affected by trauma or disability.

It worked with South Downs Nurseries in Hassocks and Old Barn Garden Centre in Dial Post to raise a gross amount of over £68,000 from visits to see Santa.

“It was an amazing achievement”, says Sarah Mead from Tates garden centres who run South Downs Nurseries. “We welcomed 4,500 children, some from as far away as New Zealand, Spain, the USA and Italy.”

The charity made free visits available to 800 families, including those settling from Ukraine, young children in supported accommodation and SEN pupils.

Clive Gravett, found of the Budding Foundation, said: “These funds will enable us to continue supporting young people in Sussex, especially those living in deprivation.”